Some Bible verses bring us comfort. Others offer perspective. They can even motivate us to do better. Here are some of my favorites; reflecting on them helps me consistently experience far more life.
…The God we serve is able to deliver us…But even if he does not…we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up. (Daniel 3:17-18, NIV)
I love the boldness, confidence, and faith of these young men! They did not know whether they would live or die, but they knew God. He is ABLE to deliver. He is WORTHY of complete allegiance. Far more life is knowing God.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (Romans 8:28, NIV)
This verse reminds me that God is in control. Even when my circumstances are rotten, God is at work, bringing beauty from ashes. Although I prefer better circumstances, His “good” is often character development. But in the long run, that is better because it leads to far more life!
If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them. (James 4:17, NIV)
This is my go-to-verse when I need a kick in the pants! When I am tempted to be lazy or selfish, this verse keeps me from justifying my sin. Rather than condemning me, its bluntness encourages me to be honest with myself and God. Far more life is found in doing good rather than sin. I am thankful for this motivating truth!
And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this? (Esther 4:14, NIV)
Mordecai posed this question to his niece, Esther, during a life-or-death situation. She had to choose whether to risk her life to try and save the Jewish nation from genocide. This verse reminds me that even when it appears evil is “winning”, God is still working. Sometimes He positions us to play an unexpected role in His plan. Far more life looks for opportunities to join God’s work.
But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” (Genesis 50:19-20, NIV)
Joseph was mistreated by his brothers and sold into slavery as a teenager. Instead of letting anger turn to bitterness, he entrusted himself to God. He focused on the blessings he received rather than the hardships he endured. Then the tables were turned and he got to to determine their fate. Far more life forgives others and trusts God to bring good despite their sin against us.
All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth. (Hebrews 11:13, NIV)
I love the “Hall of Faith” chapter. It is encouraging to read of the hardships people suffered in a different light — one that illuminates their faith. Although I have not built an ark, sacrificed my son, left my home, escaped the sword, shut the mouths of lions, or been tortured, this chapter encourages me to face my struggles with faith. And to remember that Heaven, my real home, is ahead. Far more life looks to the future with faith that it will be all God has promised!
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. (Lamentations 3:22-23, NIV)
I am so thankful for a fresh start every day. (Actually, God’s children get a fresh start with Him each time they sin, but that is not as poetic!) These verses reveal so much about God’s character: He is greatly loving; He is unfailingly compassionate; He is flawlessly faithful. We do not deserve a fresh start, but He generously offers it. Far more life radiates God’s character qualities.
I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life. (I John 5:13, NIV)
It was a great relief when I learned that God wanted me to be confident of my eternal destiny. He knows we need certainty in order to prosper, so He gives it! Once we accept Jesus, we can have confidence that our “sin debt” has been settled. We no longer need to fear Judgement Day. Far more life is free to live for God, knowing we will never be separated from Him.
There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. We love because he first loved us. (I John 4:18-19, NIV)
Whether it is my personality or being a first-born, I want to stay in good standing with the authorities and avoid punishment! I am thankful I no longer need to fear God, the ultimate authority! His Word assures me that I will never suffer His punishment now that I have accepted Jesus’ offer to take it on my behalf. His love has given me a perfect standing before God, even though I do not deserve it. I can focus on loving Him and others. Far more life offers love because it has received God’s perfect love.
Sisters,
What Bible verses do you like to reflect on? How do they communicate far more life to you?
What aspects of God’s character bring you peace, comfort, and hope?
What makes you confident in God’s forgiveness and love for you?
Do you have a “life verse” that serves as your mission statement for life (or this season of life)? If not, prayerfully consider adopting one.
Praise God for far more life!
-Shari
Copyright 2020, Shari Damaso
Far More Life 